40842 Reconstruction of mouth
Also known as: mouth reconstruction with flap, vestibuloplasty, oral reconstruction
Surgical reconstruction of the oral cavity with tissue transfer including vestibuloplasty or similar more complex procedures.
In Plain Language
mouth surgery with tissue transfer; rebuilding mouth structures; oral repair with grafting
Clinical Context
Used for more extensive oral defects requiring tissue transfer beyond simple closure. Common in head and neck cancer reconstruction, trauma, and burn contracture release.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.92 |
| Total RVU | 8.92 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 8.92, this code ranks in the 54th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 40842?
CPT 40842 (Reconstruction of mouth) is a Surgery code. Surgical reconstruction of the oral cavity with tissue transfer including vestibuloplasty or similar more complex procedures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 40842?
The work RVU for CPT 40842 is 8.92. This code is primarily used by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Plastic Surgery, Head and Neck Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 40842 used?
Used for more extensive oral defects requiring tissue transfer beyond simple closure. Common in head and neck cancer reconstruction, trauma, and burn contracture release.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.